The price of dogs has increased during the pandemic given higher demand and decreased supply, particularly of purebred and designer dogs. Dog theft is said to be rising due to offenders exploiting this situation. Media reports suggest dogs are being targeted to be sold on the black market.
But will specific dog theft laws actually help stop this awful crime? The practical effects are not clear cut, but such laws do have symbolic value, recognising dogs aren’t merely property.
How does the law deal with people who steal dogs?
Stolen dogs aren’t treated as cases of abduction or kidnapping in Australia. In other words, “dognapping” is not a specific crime. If someone is alleged to have stolen a dog, they are usually charged with larceny or theft.
The offence of theft captures the stealing of dogs because, in law, dogs are classified as property.
But when a dog is stolen, significant emotional distress is often caused to both the owner and the dog. Dogs are often recognised as members of the familydespite their legal status as property.
In both Australia and abroad, increasing attention is being paid to specific offences that seek to address the emotional impact caused when a dog is stolen.
New dog theft offences
Under the new South Australian lawthe offence of dog theft carries a maximum penalty of $50,000 or imprisonment for two years.
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